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PDF-UX: Collections

January 2025 by Peter Wyatt

PDF collections rely on the inherent ability of PDF (starting with PDF 1.3 in 1998) to include embedded files of any type. The ability to package multiple embedded files together within a PDF offers a user-friendly alternative to ZIP archives, and allow authors to define custom attributes, sort order, and a preferred layout for optimal navigation.

Triggered by our own experience in preparing the cheat sheet collection, this article explores the capabilities of PDF collections and strengthens the case for all PDF implementations to do a better job at supporting collection creation and viewing. PDF collections are already common in applications such as AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction), but the broader use of collections is growing. Just to take two examples:

Read on to learn about what Collections can offer in conjunction with supportive software.

The smallest possible (valid) PDF

January 2025 by Peter Wyatt
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What’s the smallest possible fully compliant and validatable PDF file? We set out to answer the question.

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December 2024 by Duff Johnson
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Most people searching for “pdf” are interested in a document, not the file format. Google Trends data offers a window … Read more

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December 2024 by Duff Johnson
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The PDF Association looks back at industry activities, events and accomplishments in 2024.

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November 2024 by PDF Association staff
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We’ve established a new public GitHub repository to allow anyone to log and discuss issues and requests against PDF Association … Read more

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November 2024 by Peter Wyatt
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In 2021, not a single tested implementation passed this test. 3 years later about three-quarters of viewers we checked now … Read more

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October 2024 by Duff Johnson
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Accessibility considerations for digital content aren’t limited to navigation, reading and interaction. Users also need to be able to archive, … Read more

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September 2024 by Peter Wyatt
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This PDF-UX article offers an overview of bookmarks and suggests considerations and general best practices for every PDF author, and … Read more

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September 2024 by PDF Association staff
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PDF Association members – especially those working on PDF’s imaging model – can now access TC 42 WG 23 resources … Read more

Article, For members only

August 2024 by Peter Wyatt
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Does your PDF viewer fully support page labels? Does your PDF authoring software? Support for page labels can be a … Read more

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August 2024 by PDF Association staff
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The third PDF Week of 2024 will be hosted by Charles University in the beautiful city of Prague, in the … Read more

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July 2024 by Peter Wyatt
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To avoid confusing and frustrating users, applications can and should be robustly prepared for significant changes to PDF – with … Read more

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